The Pillars of Islam
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| What are the Pillars of Islam? |
What Are the Pillars of Islam?
The Pillars of Islam are the five basic acts of worship that form the foundation of a Muslim’s faith and practice. Every Muslim follows these pillars to live a life of faith, discipline, and responsibility.
---1. What Does “Pillars of Islam” Mean?
The word pillar means something that supports a building. In Islam, the five pillars support a Muslim’s belief and daily life.
---2. The Five Pillars of Islam
1) Shahada (Faith)
The Shahada is the declaration of faith:
“There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.”
By saying this with belief, a person becomes a Muslim.
---2) Salah (Prayer)
Salah is the five daily prayers that Muslims perform every day.
- Fajr – dawn
- Dhuhr – midday
- Asr – afternoon
- Maghrib – sunset
- Isha – night
Prayer helps Muslims remember Allah and stay disciplined.
---3) Zakah (Charity)
Zakah is giving a small part of one’s wealth to help the poor and those in need.
It teaches generosity, kindness, and social responsibility.
---4) Sawm (Fasting in Ramadan)
Sawm means fasting during the month of Ramadan. Muslims do not eat or drink from dawn until sunset.
Fasting teaches patience, self-control, and empathy for the poor.
---5) Hajj (Pilgrimage to Makkah)
Hajj is the pilgrimage to the holy city of Makkah. Every Muslim who is able must perform Hajj at least once in their lifetime.
Hajj represents unity, equality, and devotion to Allah.
---3. Why Are the Pillars of Islam Important?
- They guide Muslims in their daily life
- They strengthen faith and character
- They encourage good behavior and kindness
- They create unity among Muslims
4. Teaching Tips for Teachers
- Explain each pillar with simple examples
- Use pictures, charts, and timelines
- Relate the pillars to daily life
- Encourage respectful discussion and questions
5. Simple Practice
Answer the questions:
- How many pillars are there in Islam?
- Which pillar is about prayer?
- What is fasting called in Islam?
Conclusion
The Pillars of Islam are the foundation of a Muslim’s faith. By following them, Muslims learn discipline, kindness, patience, and devotion to Allah.